About Kent downs aonb
Kent Downs AONB: Exploring the Natural Beauty of Kent
Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a protected landscape that stretches from the white cliffs of Dover to Surrey. It is a unique and diverse area that boasts stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and fascinating cultural heritage. The Kent Downs AONB covers an area of 878 square kilometers and is home to over 90,000 people.
The Kent Downs AONB was designated in 1968 as an area of outstanding natural beauty due to its exceptional landscape quality. The area comprises chalk hills, valleys, woodlands, and farmland that are home to a wide range of flora and fauna. The chalk grasslands are particularly important for their rare species such as orchids, butterflies, and birds.
The Kent Downs AONB also has a rich cultural heritage dating back thousands of years. There are numerous historic sites such as ancient hill forts, Roman villas, medieval churches, and historic houses that tell the story of the people who have lived in this area over time.
One way to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Kent Downs AONB is through its network of footpaths and bridleways. There are over 4,000 kilometers of public rights-of-way in this area that offer visitors opportunities for walking or cycling through some stunning landscapes.
Another way to experience the beauty of this region is by visiting one or more nature reserves within it. These reserves provide habitats for many rare species such as nightingales at Denge Wood or Duke's Wood Nature Reserve which has been designated as a Site Of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
If you're interested in history then there are plenty places where you can learn about it too! For example Chilham Castle which dates back to Norman times or Canterbury Cathedral which was founded in AD597 by St Augustine!
There's also plenty on offer for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as horse riding, fishing, and golf. The Kent Downs AONB is home to some of the best golf courses in the country including Royal St George's Golf Club which has hosted The Open Championship 14 times.
The Kent Downs AONB also has a vibrant local food and drink scene with many pubs, restaurants, and cafes serving locally sourced produce. There are also numerous farmers' markets where you can buy fresh produce directly from local producers.
In conclusion, the Kent Downs AONB is a unique and diverse area that offers visitors an opportunity to explore some of England's most stunning landscapes while learning about its rich cultural heritage. Whether you're interested in history or outdoor activities there's something for everyone here! So why not plan your next trip to this beautiful part of England today?
kentdowns.org.uk
